What is Corten Steel ? Corten steel is a high strength weathering steel that is corrosion resistant. When exposed to the elements a stunning patina (rust) forms on the steel - the rust protects the steel from acidic environments, and it won't break down like regular steel. Rusty Corten not only looks fantastic it also ensures your art will last ....... & like good wine it just gets better with age!
What will a clean Corten steel sculpture look like & how do I start the rust? Starting with a clean Corten steel sculpture is a really good option if you are not based in Nelson as the sculpture will always transport better prior to any rust forming (reduces the risk of scuffing or marking in transit) and you also then get to see the patina develop before your very eyes! You can help the rust along spraying it with white vinegar or seawater but the first rainfall will make the biggest impact and most noticeable & exciting change to the steels appearance. Corten evolves best when exposed to plenty of sunshine and rain water.​ Watching the patina develop and evolve is a very cool part of the art so we highly recommend this option - you will have your own unique patina on your sculpture(s) within a matter of weeks.
Will the Corten rust leach? Corten only tends to leach in its initial rusting phase when first forming the rust layer on clean Corten - once its coated / set then there is very little leaching from the steel. Because of potential initial leaching we recommend rusting up any 3Ds in stone-bases out of the stone to begin with - then once a decent coating of patina has formed they are fine popped back in the stone base - same applies for our wall art - best to mount into the wall after a decent patina has formed and for any or our Corten work if you intend to mount into or on concrete. Gardens, grass & other permeable ground surfaces are great spots for the initial rusting up of Clean Corten.
Where can we see your work in person? If you are currently in Nelson then the best place to visit for viewing our work is the Arty Nelson Gallery at 126 Trafalgar Street. For other parts of NZ you can view a full list of all our stockists by clicking on the image or heading to NZ Stockists in the menu
Will my shiny Aluminium stay shiny? ​ Aluminium is extremely hard wearing and the bright look will last for an extremely long time outdoors. We sand a unique texture and pattern into every single Aluminium Sculpture - this creates brilliant shimmer and sheen and sense of movement as you pass by the sculptures. Over time the elements may soften the effect of this but if in a suitable, clean environment it will last well - we have had our aluminium art in our garden that is more than 10 years now and it still looks fabulous! ​Aluminium is sensitive to grease, oil and fingerprints which can mark the face so we recommend that you avoid handling as much as possible and always carry the work these from their stems & threads only to keep them looking their best!
Do you ship internationally? Yes we have sent many works all over the world. Please contact us directly and we can provide a quote to ship any of our creations to your chosen location.
